Mouse: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ญ
mouse
[maสs ]
Definitions
small animal
A small rodent that typically has a pointed snout, relatively large ears and eyes, and a long tail.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mouse |
Also refers to a computer input device used to interact with graphical user interfaces.
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| rodent |
A more formal or scientific term referring to a group of mammals that includes mice, rats, squirrels, and others. Useful in academic or professional settings.
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| vermin |
Has a negative connotation and is used to describe undesirable small animals, including mice, that are considered pests or nuisances.
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Examples of usage
- The cat caught a mouse in the kitchen.
- I saw a field mouse running across the field.
computer device
A hand-held device that detects two-dimensional motion relative to a surface and is used to manipulate a cursor on a computer screen.
Synonyms
computer mouse, pointer.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mouse |
Again used for both the small rodent and the computer device. See the first entry above for more details.
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| computer mouse |
Specifically refers to the device used to control the cursor on a computer screen. Useful in situations where you need to avoid ambiguity with the animal.
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| pointer |
Often specifically discusses the cursor on a computer screen controlled by devices like a mouse or trackpad.
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Examples of usage
- She used a mouse to click on the icon.
- The wireless mouse was not working properly.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Old English 'mลซs,' which means 'mouse' and is similar in various languages, indicating its long-standing presence in human culture.
- In Latin, the word 'mus' refers to mouse, which is the root of scientific names for many mouse species.
Science
- Mice are often used in scientific research due to their biological similarities to humans, particularly in genetics and disease studies.
- Some species of mice can reproduce rapidly, with a female able to have multiple litters per year, leading to a quick increase in their population.
Pop Culture
- Mice featured prominently in children's stories, such as 'The Tale of Despereaux,' highlighting their adventurous and brave qualities.
- The animated character Mickey Mouse created by Walt Disney has become an iconic symbol of entertainment and joy worldwide.
Technology
- The computer mouse was invented in the 1960s and changed how people interact with computers, allowing for more intuitive navigation.
- Modern mice come in various forms, including wireless and ergonomic designs, enhancing user comfort and efficiency.
Cultural Symbolism
- In many cultures, the mouse symbolizes resourcefulness due to its ability to survive in various environments.
- In ancient Egypt, mice were associated with fertility and domesticity, often appearing in art and mythology.
Translations
Translations of the word "mouse" in other languages:
๐ต๐น rato
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฎเคพเคเคธ
๐ฉ๐ช Maus
๐ฎ๐ฉ tikus
๐บ๐ฆ ะผะธัะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ mysz
๐ฏ๐ต ใใบใ (nezumi)
๐ซ๐ท souris
๐ช๐ธ ratรณn
๐น๐ท fare
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ง์ฐ์ค (mausu)
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุฃุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ myลก
๐ธ๐ฐ myลก
๐จ๐ณ ้ผ ๆ (shวbiฤo)
๐ธ๐ฎ miลก
๐ฎ๐ธ mรบs
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัััาะฐะฝ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ siรงan
๐ฒ๐ฝ ratรณn